Historically the church’s role in social and state control was enormous. The most critical decisions regarding the development of civilization relied on religious leaders. Since the 18th century, the church’s power began to weaken under the influence of scientific progress and the technological revolution. In the 20th century, Secularism ultimately proclaimed religion as a private rather than a public matter. This paper will explore the great themes of the Bible and the challenges that Secularism poses to them. In addition, it will be analyzed how this knowledge can help in the professional activities of modern specialists.
The Themes of the Bible and Secularism in the Practice of the Profession
Secularism has challenged fundamental religious principles. The big bang theory and the evolution study challenged sacred canons about the creation of the universe and human beings (Dybdahl, 2022). Other great Biblical themes are the assertion that God is love and his opposition to the Devil, who personifies hatred and evil. These simple concepts formed the basis of human morality and righteousness (Themes of the Bible, 2022). However, the emergence of the philosophy of humanism challenged the idea that Christianity was a necessary institution to establish justice in society.
Secularism proclaims that an individual does not need religion to act decently and follow moral principles (Smith & Halligan, 2021). Secularism does not challenge the people’s right to profess any faith but requires the separation of religious processes from public and state ones. Comprehending these ideas is necessary for sociologists, politicians, and analysts of various organizations who work with public opinion and analyze people’s behavior.
Religion and Secular Healthcare
Religion in a secular society still strongly influences people, determining their actions and decisions. The knowledge of biblical themes can be necessary for professionals who work with people: lawyers, doctors, sociologists, analysts, psychologists, politicians, and other professionals. According to Saad & de Medeiros (2020), medicine and religion have a long convergence history. Although the issue of interaction is still controversial, the authors do not dispute the impact of spiritual support, therapy, and convictions on the treatment process. The authors propose looking for ways of coexistence and mutual understanding without agreement.
Death and acceptance are other important Biblical themes that Secularism challenges denying the existence of heaven and hell. Nevertheless, in a secular society, the rites and traditions associated with death have the most incredible connection with Christian dogmas. Thus, comprehension of critical biblical topics can be essential for secular doctors, psychologists, and social workers who work with people who are about to die or are experiencing the death of relatives. Healthcare providers should be respectful of the patient religious needs.
Integrating Knowledge into the Workplace
Secularism does not deny or prohibit human spiritual development; moreover, many behavior patterns valued in secular society are comparable to Christian principles. For instance, incorporating Christian factors such as honoring individuals, nurturing relationships, and serving with integrity into the management of secular companies increases employee engagement in the workplace (Baker & Lee, 2020). This example shows that the application of Christian themes is possible in various areas of material interaction. Another example would be to introduce an understanding of Christian values into the work of medical staff as the cultural and religious principles impact the patient’s attitude to treatment, diet, pre-medication, or surgery.
Outcomes
Secularism proclaims religion as a private matter of man and separates it from state and social processes in society. Nevertheless, religion still has a powerful influence on millions of people. Religious people live simultaneously in two conflicting realities, secular and religious. In this regard, the following outcomes can be drawn:
- Religion and spiritualism should be incorporated into the armamentarium of knowledge of health, psychology, and sociology professionals. These attainments help to build trusting relationships with people.
- Medical organizations may reinforce the competence of medical staff through training and educational programs on Christianity themes and other world religions. This kind of competence provides the ability to have a respectful dialog and make the right solutions for the treatment of religious patients.
References
Baker, B. D., & Lee, D. D. (2020). Spiritual formation and workplace engagement: Prosocial workplace behaviors. Journal of Management, Spirituality & Religion, 17(2), 107-138. Webb.
Dybdahl, J. (2022). Biblical worldview and the challenge of secularism. Web.
Saad, M., & de Medeiros, R. (2020). Spirituality and healthcare — Common grounds for the secular and religious worlds and its clinical implications. Religions, 12(1), 22. Web.
Smith, J. M., & Halligan, C. L. (2021). Making meaning without a maker: Secular consciousness through narrative and cultural practice. Sociology of Religion, 82(1), 85-110. Web.
The 7 Great Themes of the Bible. (2022). Web.